O'Fallon Auto Repair

The automotive industry has long been a field dominated by men, but women have played crucial roles in shaping and improving it. From groundbreaking engineering feats to transformative leadership, women have left an indelible mark on the world of automobiles. At Hillside Auto Repair, we recognize and celebrate the invaluable contributions of women in the automotive sector, and we are committed to continuing this legacy through our own practices and initiatives. The Pioneering Spirit of Women in Automotive Historically, women have been pivotal in advancing automotive technology and innovation. One of the earliest female automotive pioneers was Bertha Benz, who in 1888 took the first long-distance automobile trip to demonstrate the reliability of her husband Karl Benz’s invention. This bold move not only proved the practicality of the automobile but also showcased the significant role women can play in the industry. Windshield wipers have an interesting backstor ... read more

As summer winds down and college students prepare to head back to campus, one important task often gets overlooked amidst the hustle and bustle: ensuring that their vehicle is in top condition for the road ahead. Whether they’re commuting to school or making the drive back home for the holidays, a well-maintained car is crucial for their safety and convenience. At Hillside Auto Repair, we understand the unique challenges of maintaining a vehicle for young drivers, and we're here to help ensure their car is ready for the journey. The Importance of a Comprehensive Vehicle Inspection Before your teen heads back to college, a thorough vehicle inspection can prevent potential breakdowns and costly repairs. This inspection should cover several key areas, each essential for the safe and reliable operation of their vehicle. Fluid Maintenance Fluid levels are crucial for the optimal performance of a vehicle. Regular maintenance of these fluids hel ... read more

What Makes a Good Mechanic Shop? Choosing the right mechanic shop can make all the difference in maintaining the health and longevity of your vehicle. A good mechanic shop doesn't just fix cars; it builds trust, provides transparency, and ensures peace of mind. At Hillside Auto Repair, we believe these elements are key to offering top-notch service. Here's what sets a great mechanic shop apart: Comprehensive Warranties A hallmark of a reliable mechanic shop is a strong warranty. At Hillside Auto Repair, we stand behind our work with a robust 3-year/36,000-mile warranty on both parts and labor. This commitment ensures that our customers drive away with confidence, knowing they are protected long after their visit. Digital Inspections for Transparency In today's digital age, transparency is crucial. Hillside Auto Repair utilizes state-of-the-art digital inspections. This technology allows our customers to v ... read more

If you've ever foesperatund yourself in a downpour, dely trying to peer through streaks on your windshield while cursing the weather, you owe a silent thanks to the humble windshield wiper. It may not be the flashiest component of your vehicle, but it's undoubtedly one of the most crucial. Let's embark on a fascinating journey through the history of windshield wipers and discover how these unsung heroes have evolved over time. A Brief History of Windshield Wipers: The story of windshield wipers begins in 1903, when Mary Anderson, a determined inventor, revolutionized driving. Anderson’s design was essentially a hand-operated lever that could sweep a blade across the windshield, clearing away rain and debris. Little did she know, her invention would become an essential part of automotive safety. Fast forward to 1920, and the first automatic windshield wiper was introduced by the innovative German Company, Bosch. This was the era when wipers started t ... read more

Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) sensors are crucial components in modern vehicles, designed to ensure your safety on the road by continuously monitoring the air pressure in your tires. Here’s a comprehensive look at how these sensors work, why tire pressure fluctuates with summer heat, and how to identify potential sensor issues. What Do TPMS Sensors Do? TPMS sensors are installed within each tire and are responsible for monitoring the air pressure. They send real-time data to your vehicle’s onboard computer, alerting you if any tire is significantly under-inflated or over-inflated. This proactive approach helps prevent unsafe driving conditions, improves fuel efficiency, and extends the life of your tires. Why Does Tire Pressure Change in Summer? As temperatures rise, the air inside your tires expands, leading to increased tire pressure. This is due to the basic principle that air expands when heated. For every 10°F increase ... read more